The History of Rolfing® Structural Integration

Dr. Ida Rolf graduated from Columbia University in 1920 with a Ph.D. in biochemistry and then proceeded to study chemistry at the Rockefeller Institute. She starting exploring methods for healing like osteopathy, homeopathy and yoga. The theme that she saw in each of these was that proper alignment was the key.

This led to her wanting to take a closer look at the effects of gravity on the body and asking “”What conditions must be fulfilled in order for the human body-structure to be organized and integrated in gravity so that the whole person can function in the most optimal and economical way?”

From this question she developed what we now call Rolfing ® Structural Integration which is a type of soft tissue manipulation and movement education. When the soft tissues are out of alignment the stress of gravity creates compensations in the body and so until the alignment is restored there will be restrictions.  In order for it to be a process that could be repeated the Ten Series was created.

Photo Courtesy of Rolf Institute of Structural Integration

Lauren Harmon Certified Rolfer™
Certified Equine Structural Integration Practitioner
Rolfing ® Structural Integration Longmont and Fort Collins Colorado